Feeding policy

Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months

• Breastfeeding preferred; alternatively expressed mother’s milk, or donor breast milk
• To continue for at least the first year and beyond as long as mutually desired by mother and child
• Complementary foods rich in iron and other micronutrients should be introduced at about 6 mo of age

Feeding of infants

Hospital Policies

Skin-to-Skin Contact

• Immediately after delivery until the first feeding is accomplished
• Encourage throughout postpartum period

Routine Procedures

• Should always be DELAYED until first feeding completed
• Includes weighing, documentation (foot imprints) and vaccines
• Vitamin K - delay administration till after the first feeding completed (within the 1st 6 hours of birth)

Feeding Practices

• Ensure 8-12 feedings at the breast every 24 hours
• Formal evaluation and documentation of breastfeeding¹ including position, latch, milk transfer, examination at least once for each nursing shift.
• NO Supplements permitted (water, glucose water, infant formula, or other fluids) to infants unless medically indicated² for hypoglycemia or hyperbilirubinemia.
• NO routine use of pacifiers

Post Discharge policy

Review by Pediatrician¹

Parents to be asked to review after 48 to 72 hours.

• Evaluation of hydration and elimination patterns
• Evaluation of weight gain
• Discussion of maternal issues
• Observe feeding

Care at home

• Mother and child should sleep in close proximity to each other to facilitate breastfeeding
• Supine position while sleeping
• Encourage feeding at night
• Use of galactogogues may be considered